Must-Know Tips for Traveling to Cartagena Colombia

The New York Times voted Cartagena the number #2 travel destination of 2018. I recently traveled to Cartagena Colombia (you can read all about it here) and I honestly had so many questions prior to traveling and after my trip. Below, I’m sharing some must-know tips to traveling to Cartagena Colombia, Whether it’s on your bucket list or even if you have a trip planned for this year. These are tips that you should keep in mind prior to visiting.

Money

The currency in Colombia is Pesos. Some places do accept credit cards. However, I would suggest possibly exchanging money with your bank prior to visiting Colombia. Know that there are plenty of ATM’s everywhere from hotels to supermarkets. But to start off. I would suggest exchanging at least $100 if you’re traveling solo and staying in a tourist area. Remember that most places will have different rates.
Even some of the well know restaurants still don’t accept credit cards so please keep this in mind. Also, make sure that you’re using a credit/debit card that doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees.

Credit Cards

As prior stated, credit cards are accepted at most locations. The only time I mostly used pesos is when I dined or if you decide to purchase something from a street vendor.

Transportation

I honestly used Uber for most of my transportation needs. I wanted to know how much it was going to cost me upfront and I honestly didn’t feel like negotiating any prices with a taxi driver. I did take a cab from the airport. Colombia also had bus service. It didn’t make much of a huge difference budget wise for me to take the bus. So I opted to use Uber.

Coffee

Yes, you can bring coffee on a carry on bag. I believe there is a limit though to the amount that you can bring.

Transportation From The Airport

You can set up transportation on your own through a transportation company. When you exit the airport. Money exchange is on your right and right next to it, is the kiosk for taxis. Someone is also outside setting up transportation and there is taxi line. You can go directly to the person or use the kiosk.

Excursions/ Tours

I didn’t do any excursions or tours. However, there are plenty offered. I know a lot of people used some that are posted on Trip Advisor. Make sure to do your due diligence when booking a trip.

Spanish/English

Spanish is spoken in Colombia. Most people that I encountered did not speak English that was from Colombia. If you do not speak Spanish. I would highly suggest using Google translate. I had phrases saved in my note section with a header in English so I could remember what the phrase for. If you’re taking a taxi or planning on wandering off and you don’t have WiFi. Save the information. I do not speak Spanish, read or even write it. However, I didn’t allow that to stop me. I know the common phases which helped a lot.

I love to travel and I love learning about traveling. This post is definitely informative. I've never thought that places don't take credit cards. That is definitely something to keep in mind when traveling and I never thought of it.

These tips are SO SO SO great to know because traveling to another country that doesn't speak the same language as what you speak can be intimidating and overwhelming! When I went to Africa I was so so so happy I planned everything in advance! We had a driver waiting for us at the airport!

Haven't visited Columbia before but I was recently in Mexico and you're right about the foreign transaction rates on ATM and credit cards. I used my card that didn't charge such but my travel mate, well she didn't and she had a nice little surprise added to her credit card when she glanced at her bill.

About me

Hello, I’m Tasheena. I am so glad you stopped by today! I created Simply Tasheena back in 2011 as a platform to share my love for amazing food, travel, and all things fabulous! I hope you enjoy stopping by as much as I enjoy creating content for you to read. Don’t be too shy to leave a comment. I love hearing from my readers!